Chapter 8 Workbook Sample

CH 8

Treatment Directory

Resources

Insurance Appeals

“Pray, hope, and do not worry. Worry is useless.”

St. Padre Pio

 

Introduction to CH 8 Workbook:

The final chapter of this workbook guides you and your family through the treatment process. The resources provided via the websites will address many common questions families have about eating disorders. You will also learn about the Anna Westin Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at improving access to evidence-based treatment for eating disorders, as well as current advances in education for healthcare providers and educators to ensure appropriate treatment is available.

In 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives also introduced the Collaborative Care model to support integrating behavioral health services within the same primary care provider’s office. If you need help qualifying for care covered by Medicaid or Medicare, I provide a link to help ensure you or your loved one can access adequate treatment. If you are denied care, I’ve included an insurance appeal template and a helpline on Project HEAL's website. If you or your family need further assistance navigating treatment, I’ve included a treatment directory with additional resources at the end of this chapter.

 Topic:

When is the best time to seek treatment? 

The best time to seek treatment is when you ask, “Do I need help?” The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to stop the behaviors that fuel your addiction. Please call your doctor to schedule an evaluation and discuss your answers to the assessments in this workbook. By seeking treatment early, you can prevent yourself from reaching rock bottom and asking yourself the same question repeatedly: “How did I end up here?” Every day offers a new chance to choose recovery.

 National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) aims to advance research, build community, and raise awareness to support nearly 30 million Americans who will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

NEDA treatment directory:

 https://map.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

212-575-6200

National Eating Disorder Association Correspondence

333 Mamaroneck Avenue, #214

White Plains, New York 10605

 

Blessed

“I live my life with no regrets,

for I believe it was a test.

This book was not for me, but for you.

His love and strength will guide you through.

Feel his presence as you rest,

then thank the Lord for all the rest.

By: Sherry Hudak

 

 

 

Workbook Sample CH 1... Self-Examination

For those who've been waiting for my workbook to come out, I decided to start posting weekly samples from each chapter. Please note that the samples from each chapter are from different sections and DO NOT all go together, but give you a small sample of what is included in my workbook. 

I recognize the difficulties families are facing when seeking care for eating disorders and suicidal ideation; therefore, I hope these resources are helpful in the interim. Please like, share, post, and follow as I work on the marketing component of my workbook, which is challenging. So, if you feel this workbook can help someone in need, please pass it along!  For those in crisis, I will offer free copies upon publication, which we are aiming for Christmas 2026!

CH 1

Self-Examination

“So, I say to you, keep asking, and it will be given to you; keep searching, and you will find; keep knocking, and the door will open.”

Luke 11:9 NLT

Introduction to Ch 1 Workbook:

Throughout recovery, we learn what has shaped us by examining the connection between our past and our current health. The goal of recovery is to learn to make decisions with a clear mind rather than letting our addiction make choices for us. It’s impossible to fail if you know who you are, what you want to do, and work every day towards achieving your goals.

To understand your personal needs during recovery, Chapter One will guide you through a self-examination process. You will learn that poor body image and low self-esteem often result from underestimating your self-worth and abilities. You will discover how an identity crisis can contribute to an unhealthy body image and low self-esteem, and ways to cope when you're unsure of your core beliefs. You will assess your emotions, recall the memories that triggered them, reflect on your conscience, and understand how judgment and perception influence your happiness and self-esteem. You have a better chance of managing your recovery process by answering questions about who, what, where, when, and why events occur in your life. The more aware we are of our thoughts and behaviors, the easier it is to see how mindfulness helps us find our voice and connect the dots to our actions.

1.     Do you remember what you said your WHY was in the introduction to this workbook? Write your WHY again below as a reminder that you can do hard things! Consider sharing this workbook with your family and therapist as you work through your responses. The quickest way to recover is to be honest with yourself and others.

“You were made for something great, and your path is yours. Remember, nobody else has been given your unique opportunities and life circumstances. The combination of your personality, skills, and opportunities makes you who you are. Know your lane and continue to excel in it.”

Dr. Jen Welter

1^st Woman to coach in the NFL

 

 

Statistic:

A 1996 study found that 35% of women with bulimia nervosa reported a history of sexual abuse involving physical contact.

 

WOW…Words of wisdom!

Often, we treat our bodies the way we see ourselves. If you know you are loved, regardless of your appearance, you can start living freely without feeling the need to earn belonging, value, or affection through appearance-based acceptance.

 Topic:

Intrinsic v/s Extrinsic Motivation

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation is self-driven and does not rely on external rewards or pressure. You choose to do something because it’s personally rewarding and enjoyable. Intrinsic motivation tends to produce longer-lasting behavior. By contrast, extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards. If you do something for praise, approval, or to avoid punishment, you are extrinsically motivated. Understanding the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is essential to your success in recovery. This knowledge helps you access your drive, improve your well-being, and experience a sense of achievement.  

 

1.     Why do you want to recover? What motivates you?

 

You can't feel grateful and unhappy at the same time. Choosing envy shifts attention away from the positive things already in your life. King Solomon advises that when you're sad, list everything you should be thankful for and focus on it. When your heart is full of gratitude, there is no space for envy. Envy is more harmful than anger because it reflects arrogance and entitlement. Focusing on what we lack and what we believe we deserve may keep us from feeling content or happy. LIGHTBULB MOMENT

When I feel sad, I remind myself that I am grateful for the following:

1.__________________________________________

2.__________________________________________

3. __________________________________________

4. __________________________________________

5. __________________________________________

 

Topic:

Envy and Jealousy

 

Topic:

The Eating-Disordered Mind

 

People with eating disorders often interpret many statements differently. Those struggling with eating disorders have a filter that impacts how they understand what they’re seeing and hearing. These interpretations might not make sense to those without eating disorders, but they feel very real and factual to the person with the disorder.

 

 

What others say                                                        What anorexia hears

 

Topic:

What is love?

To understand what love means, Paul guides us in the Bible, specifically in the book of Corinthians, to stop fighting, grow spiritually, and follow Jesus' teachings in everyday life. In this series of questions, you will examine your relationships and how they affect your emotional well-being.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, and keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not rejoice in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

 

1. a.) How do you define unconditional love?

 

Who does this resonate with? 🙏🫂

https://youtu.be/kRefAnZP6Cs?is=3hChUuXa0bG8jI4P

LIFE IS A SHORT TRIP!

In the photo below, I have my mom in a wheelchair as I wheel her home from a brief stay at a skilled nursing home during COVID at the end of my street. One of our last conversations was about how "life is a short trip" and the importance of protecting our mental health. We talked about praying for others and how toxic environments influence our mental and physical health. While I was happy to spend these moments with her, she passed away that night at home. The lesson... please be aware of toxic people. Sometimes we don't realize their impact on our health until it is too late.

 

TRUST GOD's TIMING

 

As "empty" as I felt throughout my struggle with anorexia, God spoke to me and said, "I've heard your prayers and seen your tears. I will put a new heart and smile in you." 

This quote combines Isaiah 38:5 and Ezekiel 36:26

How Chronic Inflammation Can Contribute to Depression and Anxiety...Team Doctors biomimetic applicator pad product launch!

 https://youtu.be/HWEOyYltvS8?si=xYKeuXqmE71gwhQp

What does success look like?

Success means something different to each individual. However, these photos encapsulate the reality of what success often looks like.

The attempt to succeed is all that really matters. Even if it's getting out of bed and making it to your doctor appointment. The photo below was taken during COVID after I was diagnosed with myocarditis. I had both my mom and husband in wheelchairs. WE DON'T GET TO QUIT!

 

THIS!!!!!!!!

 

GO ALL IN!!!! 

FINALLY HOPEFUL The personalized, Whole-Body plan to Find and Fix the Root causes of Your Depression

FINALLY FOCUSED 

By: Dr. James Greenblatt 

Published 2026 

While waiting for my editor to complete my workbook, I wanted to post about one last book I've read on the topic of depression, nutritional healing, medical behavioral, and self-care, and a new approach to antidepressants. Dr. Greenblatt's publication of this work is timely, given that deprescribing has become a much greater focus in psychiatry. 

Below is an unedited version of why I read Finally Focused and how it can help you.

BITS AND PIECES...sample reading from the intro. to my workbook

 BITS AND PIECES

I was thirty-two years old in the photo on the cover of this book. I was at the peak of my career as an actress and model after completing twenty films in just over two years. However, I longed to be wanted and understood for more than my body. The activities I once loved, and that brought me joy, were taken from my life as I became obsessed with food and exercise. Although I was eager to work on films that told meaningful stories, I had to decide whether being a starving artist was worth it.

Although I loved working as an actress, the entertainment industry was a significant trigger for me. The most important lesson I learned as an actress was the extent of my compassion for others; I didn’t extend it to myself. As I learned to show myself compassion, I became less self-critical and more understanding of the pain I had experienced throughout my life. Self-compassion created space for love and forgiveness, helping me make progress in my recovery. If you struggle with self-compassion, chapter two will help you identify your triggers and set personal boundaries. Setting and maintaining these boundaries creates room for personal growth and development. 

So, I ask you now: what is contributing to your struggles with food or substance use? As you work through the questions in this workbook, your answers will become clear. However, you must prepare yourself for the difficult work ahead. The world is tough. It will try to defeat you. The only sure way to recover from anything is to accept accountability for our actions. Accountability isn’t just about the individual suffering; everyone needs to hold themselves accountable for their choices. Accountability isn’t about blaming; it's about learning to communicate effectively and taking ownership of the direction of our lives. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it.

As I researched the topics in this workbook further, I found a sobering fact: approximately 30 million people in the US and 70 million worldwide have been diagnosed with an eating disorder. This suggests that these issues affect a significant portion of the global population. Shockingly, half of Americans are connected to someone fighting an eating disorder, yet only a few thousand doctors are trained to treat them. When I think about families, friends, clinicians, teachers, and spiritual leaders, I realize that almost every household could benefit from the resources in this workbook. As you prepare for the challenging journey ahead, ask yourself, “WHY is recovery important to me right now?” and “What is your WHY or reason for reading this workbook?”

            The Road Less Traveled can mean many different things to different people. Author M. Scott Peck explores the connection among psychology, personal growth, and spirituality in his book, The Road Less Traveled. The book highlights the importance of taking responsibility for your life and the choices you make. Key lessons include the value of honesty and the idea that life’s obstacles can be opportunities for growth and learning. In the Bible, The Road Less Traveled refers to choosing a path that may feel less secure and more uncomfortable, with fewer people by your side. Every day, God invites us to take this less-traveled path, one that offers freedom and peace rather than constantly chasing after what leaves us unfulfilled. By walking this path, you gain a deeper understanding of your pain and suffering through self-discipline, love, and grace, thereby emerging as a new, more enlightened self. My journey with God has instilled in me a deep sense of forgiveness, compassion, hope, love, and perseverance.

 

The Tryptophan Fork... Why this essential amino acid is important to maintaining healthy brain function and decreasing inflammation in the body.

ESSENTIAL AMINO ACIDS FOR MUSCLE, BRAIN, AND TISSUE HEALTH

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, which means your body cannot make it on its own. You must get it from the food you eat. Tryptophan is important because your body uses it to make serotonin, melatonin, and Niacin (Vitamin B3). If you struggle with major depressive disorder, fibromyalgia, scleroderma, eating disorders, chronic pain, and inflammation, this topic is a key component to discuss with your team of doctors.

• Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and digestion
• Melatonin is a hormone that helps control your sleep-wake cycle.
• Niacin (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble vitamin that every cell in your body needs. (ex. repairing DNA and protecting cells from damage, helping your digestive system function properly, supporting the brain and nervous system, keeping skin healthy, and turning carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy)

Good sources of tryptophan include: 

• Turkey and chicken
• Eggs
• Fish
• Dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Soy foods
• Nuts and seeds (especially pumpkin and sesame seeds)
• Beans and lentils
• Oats

The tryptophan fork is a way of describing how the amino acid tryptophan can be directed down two major metabolic pathways—one that supports brain health and one that can contribute to inflammation.

Here’s how it works:

1. Serotonin and melatonin pathway (the “feel-good” pathway)
• Tryptophan is converted into serotonin, which helps regulate:
• Mood
• Anxiety
• Appetite
• Sleep
• Serotonin can then be converted into melatonin, which helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
2. Kynurenine pathway (the inflammatory pathway)
• About 90–95% of tryptophan normally goes down this pathway.
• During inflammation, chronic stress, infection, or some autoimmune diseases, even more tryptophan is diverted into the kynurenine pathway.
• Some of the compounds produced are beneficial, but others—such as quinolinic acid—can become elevated and may contribute to:
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Brain fog
• Fatigue
• Increased pain sensitivity

Autoimmune diseases can increase inflammatory signals that shift more tryptophan toward the kynurenine pathway, potentially leaving less available for serotonin production. Researchers are studying whether this contributes to symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties in inflammatory conditions.

Factors that may influence which “fork” tryptophan takes include:

• Chronic inflammation
• Psychological stress
• Infection
• Vitamin B6 status (needed for serotonin production)
• Iron status
• Gut health and the gut microbiome

The tryptophan fork is an active area of research in conditions such as depression, autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and eating disorders.

Think of tryptophan as reaching a fork in the road.

One road leads to serotonin, while the other leads to kynurenine.

    Tryptophan

                      │

          ┌───────────┴───────────┐

          │                       │

  Serotonin pathway         Kynurenine pathway

          │                       │

    Serotonin                 Kynurenine

          │                       │

     Melatonin           Several other compounds

The serotonin pathway

When tryptophan travels this route, it is used to make:

• Serotonin, which helps regulate mood, calmness, appetite, and emotional well-being.
• Melatonin, which helps regulate sleep.

When this pathway is working well, people often experience:

• Better mood
• More stable appetite
• Better sleep
• Improved emotional resilience

The kynurenine pathway

Most of the body’s tryptophan naturally goes down this pathway because it produces compounds important for:

• Energy metabolism
• Immune function
• Production of Vitamin B3 (niacin)

However, when the body is under chronic stress, inflammation, infection, or autoimmune disease, enzymes such as IDO (indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase) become more active. They divert even more tryptophan into the kynurenine pathway.

Some kynurenine metabolites are protective, but others—particularly quinolinic acid—may:

• Overstimulate nerve cells
• Increase inflammation
• Contribute to fatigue
• Increase pain sensitivity
• Be associated with depression and brain fog

Why this matters

Imagine your body has 100 units of tryptophan.

Under healthy conditions:

• A small amount is used to make serotonin.
• Most goes through the kynurenine pathway for normal metabolism.

During chronic inflammation:

• Even more of those 100 units are pulled into the kynurenine pathway.
• Less may be available for serotonin production.
• This can coincide with lower mood, poorer sleep, and increased fatigue in some people.

Why researchers are interested

The tryptophan fork has become an important area of research because many conditions involve chronic inflammation, including:

• Major depressive disorder
• Fibromyalgia
• Scleroderma
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Eating disorders during periods of malnutrition or inflammation

Researchers are studying whether reducing inflammation, restoring good nutrition, improving gut health, and treating the underlying illness can help rebalance tryptophan metabolism. While this area is promising, it is still being actively investigated, and scientists have not yet established that changing the tryptophan “fork” alone can treat these conditions.

In simple terms, the tryptophan fork describes the body’s decision about how to use tryptophan: toward making serotonin and melatonin, or toward producing kynurenine compounds that support normal metabolism but, when overproduced during inflammation, may contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and low mood.